Free Branded for Murder by Dick C. Waters Page B

missing something basic. I just can’t figure it out.”
    Paddy looked at the pile of folders stacked on Mike’s desk. “I also came in over the weekend trying to come up with something as well. We obviously missed each other…and we’re both missing a common thread as well.” He continued, “I looked at the canvassing reports. It’s amazing that nobody saw anything out of the ordinary. That’s strange in itself, as there always seems to be something strange happening no matter where you are. But, there’s nothing .”
    “Paddy, we’ve been working together for years. I think this is the first time I feel under whelmed as far as leads go. There’s nothing. However, Chris’ insight into the killer’s character is very interesting and believable. I wish I could dig into the fishbowl, pick all of those guys out and check them out.” He shook his head recognizing how impossible that would be.
    “Someday Mike, there will be a capability like that. Right now it’s mostly leg work and luck. Hopefully, somebody will give us a lead. I think we should assign some resources to review any reported rapes. Maybe we’ll get lucky with the guy having his fun but not killing the woman. I doubt we’ll be lucky, but it’s worth a shot. Maybe we can use Scott to assist with that? If we just stayed within Boston we might just have some luck. The majority of the killings are local.”
    “I like that idea Paddy. I also like the idea of getting Scott involved. What were your thoughts on his participation at the meeting the other day?”
    “As I mentioned following the meeting, he looked like he might just pass out. However, now that I think about my earlier career, many of those early cases shocked the hell out of me. It’s hard to think back that far, thinking you can just get used to these crimes. I guess I’ve become desensitized. That’s kind of scary in itself. I did think Scott got very interested in the details. It would be interesting to see what he thinks when he arrives this morning…if he arrives.” Paddy’s comment forced a chuckle from both of them.

Chapter 18
     
    The funeral and family gathering in Maine would have made Jackie proud. I really enjoyed sitting around at Jackie’s parents’ house, reminiscing about the past. I knew she was into sports, but I hadn’t heard the funny stories about how much grief she caused trying to get on the boys’ teams. Maybe she was with us—listening.
    Dad and I shared glances when the conversation centered on the serial killer. I listened to the comments and opinions and kept what I knew to myself. Someone announced the food was ready and that was the last mention of the strangler. Unfortunately, I couldn’t ignore what the women endured in their last hours. It was hard to control my rage. I spent considerable time over the weekend reminiscing. I promised myself I would not let my life be a waste and I promised again that I would find her killer.
     
    *.*.*
     
    Earlier, driving back to my apartment, I had hours to think about everything. I had finally accepted the fact that Jackie was no longer with us. I had a serious task ahead of me, helping to find her killer. I wish I had spent more time with her, but I have the memories of the time we did share.
    Seeing my Uncle Jack and Aunt Frances accepting what happened, talking about forgiveness…well, I don’t know if I can actually do that. I have never hurt anyone on purpose, but I think I would have a tough time holding back my rage if I met this killer face to face. I would have to forgive myself later. He deserves some pain.
    The time with my extended family also took my mind off Lisa. Well, it took my mind off her when I was with them, but not now. I remember how soft she felt, how warm she felt, how nice she kissed, and how my body reacted to her. Seeing Jackie looking like a princess with that rose, I knew she was telling me what she was talking about—finding the right person would change my outlook on